Small business owners face a myriad of challenges, from limited time and resources to the constant juggling act of working nights and weekends. Often, they take on the role of IT experts, handling technology concerns themselves.
Cybersecurity is a year-round concern for businesses. With rising cyber threats, companies must stay vigilant and educate employees continuously to protect sensitive data, ensure compliance, and safeguard operations. Cyberattacks cost the U.S. economy billions of dollars each year, and small businesses are an especially attractive target due to their limited resources to invest in cybersecurity. Here are some key areas to think about to help lower your risk at being targeted:
Training
Educate employees on basic internet usage best practices. Empowering your team with the right knowledge and habits can significantly bolster your defenses against evolving threats. Training your team with best internet practices is the first place to start, and others to consider:
- Detecting phishing emails
- Avoiding suspicious downloads
- Utilizing authentication tools
- Protecting sensitive information
Employ Network Security Controls
No matter the size of your organization, it is vital that your organization takes proactive steps in protecting your network. There are a few tools that your organization should adopt to help mitigate your risk. Consider implementing the following:
Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
MFA has become a crucial component of cybersecurity for all organizations. It serves as a highly effective tool, adding an additional layer of protection to your network. By employing out-of-band verification methods, typically through text messages or push notifications on a cell phone, MFA ensures that logins are performed only by authorized individuals. This method prevents unauthorized access even if a bad actor obtains a username or password.
Endpoint Protections Platforms (EPP)
EPP is the practice of securing endpoints – such as desktops, laptops, servers, and mobile devices ‘’ from malicious activity. Endpoint protection aims to safeguard your entire network. There are many levels of EPP (i.e., EDR – Endpoint Detection & Response, MDR – Managed Detection & Response), and ensuring adequate protection is crucial for network security.
Software Updates
Regularly updating software is crucial for security and functionality. Configure all software to install updates automatically, including antivirus software, operating systems, web browsers, and other applications, to secure your infrastructure comprehensively. While it’s tempting to overlook updates amid other tasks, cybersecurity requires constant vigilance. Critical updates often require just a system reboot, so prioritize them to avoid vulnerabilities to the latest threats.
Key Takeaways
Cyberattacks cost billions annually, making small businesses prime targets due to limited cybersecurity investments. To lower risks, implement training on internet best practices, secure networks with passwords and encryption, work with secure payment processors, back up data, and prioritize software updates for comprehensive security.
Other Resources:
- National Institute of Standards and Technology: Cybersecurity Corner
- U.S. Small Businesses Administration: Strengthen Your Cybersecurity
- America’s Cyber Defense Agency: Cyber Guidance
